Taiwan is an island nation in Asia with a rich culture and spectacular scenery that will appeal to any traveler.
1. Taiwan Quick Facts
Language Mandarin Chinese
Religion Buddhism & Taoism
Currency Taiwanese Dollar (TWD)
Visa Visa free entry for 60+ nationalities
Power Plugs 110V 60 Hz (A/ B Type)
Capital Taipei
ATM ATM are also readily available, allowing you to withdraw local currency using your credit or debit card.
Use card
Most shops and restaurants, hypermarkets and department stores, malls and outlets accept credit cards. They must be VISA, Master, Amex, JCB, etc., have a signature on the back, and be the same as the English name on your passport. You may find it difficult to use your card in smaller shops or markets.
Useful APP
Google Maps
Uber
55688
2. Packing for your trip
Air plain Ticket
Dollar Flight Club has made it easier and cheaper to buy flights to the Airport.
SIM card
Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices.
New member one-time use 15% discount coupon
10% discount coupon for multiple use by all members.
Pacsafe Pro safe 800 Luggage Lock
Good protection against snatchers or impulse thieves.
Universal Power Adapter
One of the most essential but most forgotten items in your travel gear? A power adapter!
Travel insurance
Prepare for risky situations Travel insurance can be a big help in the event of an emergency
GoPro HERO11
If you want to capture your own memories of your travels, GoPro is the way to go. It’s small, has great image quality, and is easy to carry around
First aid kit
It’s a good idea to bring some first aid kit with you for minor illnesses or indigestion while travelling. You’ll be able to respond quickly if you need medication. If you need to pack your own medication, pack it along with a ‘prescription’.
3. Transportation
Taiwan’s transport card, iPASS
The Taiwan iPASS is a multi-purpose transport card that can be used throughout Taiwan. It can be used on MRT, buses, and Taiwan High Speed Rail, including in Taipei and Kaohsiung.
The minimum top-up amount is NT$100, and it can only be reloaded with cash.
Taiwan subway fares are distance-based
Taiwan’s taxi app, 55688, allows you to hail a nearby taxi driver through the app and conveniently get to your desired destination. If you want to use it, you’ll need to be on a fixed (or dual) SIM with a ‘Taiwanese number’.
Ut Uber is an uber taxi application that works globally
4. Safety
Taiwan offers a safe and secure environment for travellers, so travelling alone as a woman is not out of the question. The crime rate in Taiwan is low and the police force operates efficiently, ensuring travelers’ safety.
Useful phone numbers for tourists
110 (police) or 119 (ambulance/fire)
5. Climate
The southern coastal cities (Tainan, Kaohsiung) have a year-round tropical climate, while the northern cities (Taipei, Taichung) have a more subtropical climate with distinct summer and winter seasons. Summer temperatures in Taiwan can reach over 35°C (95°F), and the heat and humidity make you sweat profusely, while winter temperatures average 17°C (62.6°F), but can feel colder due to high humidity and windy conditions.
6. price
The cost of living is generally lower than in other Asian countries such as Japan and South Korea.
Big Mac Combo Meal: 130 TWD
Water (1.5 l): 32 TWD
Starbucks tall size 95 TWD
7. Travel precautions
All drinks and food, including coffee, are prohibited on Taiwan’s subways.
It is advisable to have change on hand when travelling on public transport, as it is not common to receive change.
Cigarettes can only be smoked in designated smoking areas
8. Etiquette & Service Tip
When meeting people in Taiwan, shake hands without bowing to greet them.
When drinking, if someone pours you a drink, tap the table near your glass three times with your middle finger.
Tip
There is no tipping culture in Taiwan.
However, there are some basic etiquette tips for hotels and resorts.
9. Holidays
The public holidays in Taiwan in 2024
1 Jan Mon New Year’s Day/Republic Day
8 Feb to 14 Feb Thu to Wed Chinese New Year Holiday
28 Feb Wed 228 Peace Memorial Day
4 Apr Thu Children’s Day/Qing Ming Festival
5 Apr Fri Children’s Day Holiday
1 May Wed Labor Day *
10 Jun Mon Dragon Boat Festival
17 Sep Tue Mid-Autumn Festival
10 Oct Thu ROC National Day
2025 National Public Holidays:
Wednesday, 1 January : New Year’s Day
Wednesday, 1 January : Republic Day
Saturday to Sunday,25 January to 2 February : Chinese New Year Holiday
Friday, 28 February : 228 Peace Memorial Day
Thursday, 3 April : Children’s Day Holiday
Friday, 4 April : Children’s Day
Saturday, 5 April : Qing Ming Festival
Thursday, 1 May: Labour Day *
Friday, 30 May : Dragon Boat Festival Holiday
Saturday, 31 May : Dragon Boat Festival
Monday, 6 October : Mid-Autumn Festival
Friday, 10 October : ROC National Day